beeen a whileThe Truth About Hackers
Originally, a hacker was someone who made furniture with an axe. In computing slang it is a person who enjoys exploring the details of programmable systems and how to stretch their capabilities, as opposed to most users, who prefer to learn only the minimum necessary. Also, one who programs enthusiastically (even obsessively) or who enjoys programming rather than just theorizing about programming.
In recent years the term "hacker" has been used by the modern media as "An unauthorized user who attempts to or gains access to an information system and the data it supports", really what they are referring to is a cracker (they are not being racist here. Ha). A cracker is a person who illegally gains access to someone else's computer. The term hacker is used incorrectly to mean what a cracker does.
There are basically three types of "hackers" Coders, Administrators, and script kiddies. This characterization is based upon overall competence and ability to compromise computer technology, networks, protocols, and systems. I'm going to explain all three types to you and give an understanding as to what the differences are.
Coders are software programmers who enjoy finding hidden and unique vulnerabilities in computer systems. They are usually at the top of curve so-to-speak of knowledge of computer systems, networks and the protocols they operate. Coders have a deep knowledge of TCP stacks and the OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection reference model). A framework developed by the International Standards Organization (ISO) to provide worldwide standards for computer communications. Contrary to the average opinion "Coders" are not always malicious and are a lot of times in groups to improve network security. This group is the most versed in computer literacy and usually have a since of responsibility to computer systems and the security of networks.
Administrators are far more common than Coders and they might have experience with several operating systems, have a basic TCP/IP knowledge and can exploit several vulnerabilities that have been found by others. Some level of programming or scripting ability is required. Administrators like to play with tools and are usually beta testers for the newest hacking software.
The lowest and most populated part of the hacker pyramid is the Script kiddies. They get their name from the fact that they use scripts and codes previously written to use for the malicious activities. IN the hacking world they are the least respected as they seem to be like a kid playing with fire who is having so much fun at the expense of the administrators of those computer systems. They are intrigued at the notion of gaining unauthorized access to systems and quite often don't do anything but delete files and cause trouble to the people of that system. It has been found the most script kiddies are pretty young most still in school. There learning is finding the newest automated hacking tool to where they might get access to a network that denies access.
Written by Eric Salazar